Let’s face it: There’s a language which exists in this world that mere words and logic can’t quite encompass. In fact, this orientation views what’s spoken as somewhat of a limited dimension.

Those who are severely critical of or deny this realm altogether would like nothing better than to have everything conveyed to them in a nice, neat verbal package. However, the inhabitants of this world notice the nuances; the simple gestures. Maybe a glance, or a shift of the eyes, a tightening of the brow, or a halfhearted grin.

Welcome to planet intuition.

In a birth chart, when the Sun is placed in Pisces and the Moon in Scorpio, we have a combination which exudes depth perception at it’s finest hour.

The core life energy of the Pisces Sun consists of the desire to transcend the earthly plane and return to it’s source of divinity. To unify, merge and dissolve the barriers which restrict our connection to the all that is.

Within this placement there’s a psychological need to reach a more elevated state of being. However, this “high” can be reached by anything ranging from transcendental meditation to hallucinogens and alcohol.

The suggestion here is to let go and detach the ego from the life expectations and outcomes which leave some of us tightly wound and stiff as a board.

The Piscean question is: If we’re already one with the universe, and have what we need, why do we strive to gain dominance in this dense material world?

This fluidity allows Pisces to readily assume the shape of it’s container, but if this inclination is left unchecked, one’s own identity development can be severely impaired.

Because of this universal identification to humanity, the Pisces Sun exudes a compassion and empathy which seems as if it’s pervaded the bloodstream of the collective. There’s a delicate sensitivity present which ranges from the heights of human nobility and victory to the lows of tragedy and suffering. Pisces sees life in terms of an expanding sphere as opposed a straight line.

The Moon in Scorpio uses the Sun’s energy to reflect a personality whose reigning emotional needs consist of deep and profound contact with life’s regenerative forces. Passionate involvement with anything which will aid in self-transformation is the “food” which nourishes the lunar scorpion.

Whether it’s an intimate relationship, or a cause that’s near or dear to their heart, immersing themselves wholeheartedly in a focused manner is a necessity. There’s a penetrating quality to this placement because of it’s commitment to the truth.

We’re not talking about the Bobby Mcferrin’ “don’t worry, be happy” version of the truth. More like grave, taboo, forbidden truths which resonate in our guts that we would rather not hear about. Scorpio knows that to live fully and authentically, they must embrace both the light AND the dark. As Astrologer Stephen Arroyo states:

“An inner confidence can often develop when they consciously realize that, if they can overcome excessive fear and paranoia, they can be guided by inner convictions and intuitions that often prove extraordinarily accurate.

In fact, many of the most successful people who have lots of Scorpio attunement reach their potential by increasingly allowing their“gut feelings” to guide them. A passionate sense of purpose or mission in life can then support a healthy positive self-confidence; and their mystique and charisma will reflect this inner certainty.”

When this sun-moon combination is operating in a dysfunctional manner, it manifests behaviorally as someone whose boundaries are so permeable that they’re not able to distinguish where they end and another person begins.

Someone who has spent an incredible amount of time shape shifting in ideas and identity that they lack a firm center or operational base for their individuality to be involved with the mundane affairs of the world.

In addition, the individual can be emotionally withholding because of fear that the world is an unsafe place. Using their insecurity as motivation and rationalization to control the thoughts and activities of others through emotionally manipulative tactics.

An optimum expression of this blend manifests as an acutely perceptive individual who uses psychological insight to heal others and assist in identification of deeply rooted patterns which may be stifling an otherwise rich life development.

Someone who uses the dark as a segue to the light. An individual who exudes their emotional reserves to engage with life at the deepest level while simultaneously flowing with the principle of unity which binds all things.

Astrologer Darby Costello sums up the placement of Mars in Scorpio as a “deep water warrior” and for good reason.

In our individual birth charts Mars’ sign, house placement and aspects indicate how we can potentially apply energy into the world at large. When I think about this placement, the first two words that come to mind are potent and effective.

The visual of this water sign Mars is a warrior flexing her or his “Liquid Sword”.

Astrology is holistic, so whenever a placement is discussed, it’s understood that it must be viewed within the context of the entire birth chart. The whole is always greater than the sum of it’s parts. However, I would like to discuss this placement on a general level.

Mars in Scorpio’s placement suggests that person would need to apply their energies in the world in a deeply penetrative manner.

To get to the bottom of things. Strategically directing focus toward investigative pursuits which are capable of fueling their emotional instincts and spiritual power . The potential exists for one to assert themselves in ways which transform and regenerate themselves and others. The key here is to find something which will wholeheartedly engage passion.

“Mars in Scorpio stays below the surface until something comes along that can fully engage its energy. No matter how cool the rest of the chart, this planet goes for an intimate contact that will potentially transform both its “target” and itself. Once set off, it’s all or nothing. Anyone who is emotionally engaged will have their deepest strengths and weaknesses exposed, as will the Mars in Scorpio person. At it’s best, it’s immensely effective. Old outworn habits are eliminated, huge amounts of rubble burned, space made for new life to enter and grow. When things need to be brought to an end, cleared out, resolved, this Mars gives full worth.”

Mars in Scorpio also suggests vast reservoirs of physical energy which can be used in almost single-minded pursuit of a goal which you deem worthy of your efforts and ambition.

It’s also important to remember the constructive uses of the personal power and magnetic charisma that’s suggested by this placement. As it can be used to empower self and others to greater heights and deeper analysis, or dangerously to manipulate the psyche and emotions.

In this placement, there is an inclination to do whatever needs to be done and travel where mere mortals may fear to tread to harness bare naked reality. Whatever is found, no matter how grotesque or disturbing can be savored for it’s value and what’s useless can be discarded in the name of clearing space for a stronger replacement.

Mars’ realm also includes how sexual energy is applied, and those with this placement have the potential to use the sexual act as a vehicle or gateway to the depths of intimacy with another human being.

When the other two water signs, Cancer and Pisces are spoken about, there is usually an emphasis on their deep sensitivity. While not nearly emphasized as much, because it may manifest behaviorally as suspicion or sometimes paranoia, Scorpio possesses the same gifts.

As we get back to the sex, Astrologer Stephen Arroyo explains about Mars in Scorpio:

“Sex opens doors for them to the kind of deep communication and intimacy that they crave and it is one thing in life that finally lets them get out of control in a releasing, relaxing way. Most people with this placement have a strong attraction to the emotional intensity of sex and the experience of being overwhelmed by such powerful and fundamental life energies and some regard a sexual relationship as an opportunity to explore a further dimension of feeling, which sometimes leads to personal transformation.”

Donna Van Toen expresses a similar view:

“Sex and Scorpio are well-nigh synonymous. However, that insatiably voracious sexual appetite is often only a mask for what Mars in Scorpio really wants,which is understanding. For someone to take the time to get close enough to see- and touch- the real person on all levels, and understand -physically, mentally, and emotionally- this, is the ultimate turn-on for Mars in Scorpio. “

As with any placement in our birth charts, it’s what we decide to make of it. The potential of Mars in Scorpio ranges from the highest heights to the lowest depths.

With a Mars in Scorpio placement, Your Theme song is “Liquid Swords” by the GZA.

One of the things that I like about her philosophy in regard to our experience with certain transits is that the process is geared more toward exploring our growth and development and less toward focusing on the question : “what’s going to happen to me?”, which suggests that we’re resigned to some sort of inevitable fate that our own efforts can do nothing to alter or augment.

Here are some questions related to planetary transits, starting with Jupiter that I would like to share:

Jupiter Transits
In what ways can I expand/broaden the concepts which are associated with the transiting Sign, aspect and house position?

How can I adopt a greater sense of abundance when it comes to the affairs of the Jupiter’s transiting planetary relationship, as well as the house position in my birth chart?

In what ways can I create more opportunities for myself?

How can I uncover opportunities which otherwise may be undetected because they present themselves in a rather mundane “package”?

What do I believe about my life when it comes to Jupiter’s transiting relationship to my birth chart? Are my beliefs working for me? What’s the current status of my life philosophy?

Saturn Transits
How can I adopt a greater sense of reality when it comes to Saturn’s transiting relationship to planets in my chart, as well as the house position?

What’s in my life which calls for a “quality control” examination?

Where do I need to pare down the clutter in my life and eliminate what’s no longer functional?

In what areas do I need to plan, structure, organize and exercise self-discipline & commitment?

Where may I have to delay short term gratification in service of longer term development?

Where do I need to exercise a greater sense of maturity, which will ultimately lead to wisdom?

In what areas of my life should I strive for concrete and tangible results?
Where should I be prepared to test the validity of my ideals in the real world?

Uranus Transits
In what areas of my life can I use my ingenuity and penchant for innovation?

Where in my life (according to Uranus’ transiting relationship to sign & house) can I totally revamp and gain fresh and exciting perspectives?

Where do I need to gain a re-invigorated sense of freedom?

In what areas of my life must I be open to sudden change which doesn’t occur as I imagined it would?

Where can I make progressive inroads by going against the grain?

Where can I simultaneously recognize and learn to appreciate my group affiliations and individual presence?

Neptune Transits
Where can I eliminate the need to “push” things in my life and allow myself to experience a greater sense of flow?

If I’m experiencing a sense of rigidity, where does it need to be dissolved?
In what areas of my life can I experience more unity?

Where can I eliminate the incessant need for strict definition, and adopt a more rhythmic and free-form approach?

Where may I be likely to delude myself or view things with rose-colored spectacles, possible over- idealizing?

In what areas of my life may I be prone to self-deception? (Choosing to believe something only because I wish it was the case)

In what areas of my life can I call on my creative imagination, intuition and sensitivity as a co-pilot in making decisions?

Pluto Transits

How can I use a crisis as an opportunity?

Is there anything which I’ve become overly identified with in my life (job, relationship, title, material possession, religious/spiritual belief) which requires complete recalibration?

What fears am I afraid to penetrate and examine?

What areas of my life am I seeking to completely transform?

What do I seek to “kill” or bring “death” to in my emotional, spiritual or psychological life?

What area(s) in my life requires a dramatic, sweeping change of perspective as to make them “born again” ?

With Saturn located in the natal 3rd House, authority and mastery have the potential to be applied in the life arenas of teaching and learning.

In these fields of experience, you can become a subject matter expert, producing thought and speech of the highest quality.

To actualize the possibilities of this placement takes FOCUS.

The result can be mental maturity and clarity which has come though considerable deliberation.

You’re being asked to speak responsibly and realistically in your everyday life. Any research which you undertake should be thorough for best results.

It’s a misuse of this placement to allow fear and doubt of your intellectual capabilities to prevent you from expressing yourself. Chances are, you definitely have something to say and you don’t have to sacrifice accuracy for speed. It’s the quality and the weight of your words which will have the ultimate effect on your success.

Concrete solutions to complex problems are in your grasp. You can bring the most esoteric and profound concepts down to earth so the layperson can relate. It’s important that the people in your immediate environment are clear on the basic tenets of your ideas.

Potential for a strongly retentive mind is suggested with Saturn in the 3rd house, as you can build a solid database to access for practical use in the material world, fusing knowledge and wisdom and information and understanding.

Your insatiable curiosity knows no bounds, but it’s important to you that you convert your clever ideas so that they add value to your life as well as the lives of others. The need to know vitalizes you to search for “real world” and material demonstrations of your immense adaptability.

While you require a solid and practical structure from which to operate, it most likely won’t dull your inclination to experiment with all of the diversity life has to offer. Your multi-faceted worldview along with a steady persistence can unfold as an uncanny ability to create wealth via the acuity of your mind.

Even if you’re not certain of where your thoughts or words may take you, you’re not one to give up once you decide to follow an idea trail.

To successfully navigate this sun/moon blend, understand your need to enjoy life through BOTH the intellect AND the senses. To simultaneously balance a healthy amount of stimulation and relaxation for both. If you fail to find a point of equilibrium, you might discover that alternate between an ultra powerful, elastic – yet UNFOCUSED stream of thought, and a body which comes addicted to comfort, and only wishes to operate under the umbrella of that which brings it pleasure.

In order to achieve the results you seek, which are connected to manifesting things materially, while eloquently explaining your sense perceptions, it’s important that you learn how to gain solidity of being; filtering out incessant external chatter in the name of grounded focus. With this solar/lunar combination, it’s meant for you to access and express your mental brilliance in a common sense way, where youthful exuberance and earthy wisdom meet.

” If you do not ask yourself what it is you know, you will go on listening to others and change will not come because you will not hear your own truth.” -Saint Bartholomew

“Whose world is this?(The world is yours, the world is yours)It’s mine, it’s mine, it’s mineWhose world is this?” – From “The World is Yours” by Nas (Produced by Pete Rock)

The Sagittarius Woman

Who she is :
The mind expander. The eclectic visionary. The minister of whatever moves her spirit. The straight talker. The freedom seeker. The funny woman. The great debater. The experience hungry. The knowledge thirsty. Ms. or Mrs. International. The self-righteous hypocrite. The truth copyrighter. The flawed goody two shoes. The open-minded proselytizer.

Life tasks:
To craft the most enormous vision possible for her life. To educate. To Illuminate. To share ideas which provide others with a broader understanding of the world. To gain wisdom and understanding. To discover her personal “God” or “Gods” within. To connect the dots of her life and create a workable life philosophy. To find meaning, significance and internal joy.

Where you can find her:
At the Cannes International Film Festival. Reading “Autobiography of a Yogi” or “Assata”. Obtaining a graduate degree in Education, Anthropology or African-American Studies. At the New York Knicks Game. At the Jay -Z and Kanye West show, watching Anthony Bourdain’s “The Layover”. At a lecture on metaphysics. At a used bookstore. At church, mosque or temple. Shopping, adding to her eclectic wardrobe.

Her many faces:
The Professor. The Globetrotter. The Student. The Nomad. The Intellectual. The Preacher. The Prophet. The well-read Woman.

Victor Status:

A tour guide through the mental and physical realms. The woman that you want as a teammate in “taboo” , or as a traveling partner on any continent. A striking blend of intellect, insight and humor. Open to anything which will elevate her intuitive thought.

Victim Status:Hypocrisy, Intolerance. Forces her views on others. Dogmatic. Unyielding in the face of new information. Ignores facts and important details, exaggerates emotions for effect, “right at all costs” syndrome.

Wardrobe:
Comfortable, bright and multi-colored with exotic flair.

Sexual style:
Exploratory, adventurous, uninhibited.

Ideal Relationship:
Full of laughter, mind blowing conversation, and international excursions. Simultaneously meeting her needs for intimacy and independence. Honest, straightforward communication.

Her Greatest Strength:
Enthusiasm

The moment you encounter a Sagittarius Woman, you will be catapulted into the wide open world of possibilities. In fact, if you converse with her long enough, you’ll discover just how vast the world really is. You’ll discuss places you’ve never been, but have always wanted to go: mentally, physically and spiritually.

The Archer Woman will be so filled with enthusiasm when you meet her that it will be hard to tell whether spring water, mocha latte or ciroc is in that cup she’s carrying around. Whatever the case, you’ll appreciate her for being disarmingly honest and providing a wide lens view of life’s potential.

The word “enthusiasm” has it’s origins in Greece. It means “to be filled with God”. The roots being “en”(in) and “theos” (God).

The interests and tastes of lady Sadge are so eclectic that you might find her in any number of places. Her philosophy centers around becoming involved in whatever is going to expand her horizons and provide her with a sense of meaning and significance.

One of the most impressive dimensions to the Sagittarian Woman’s personality is her versatility. Even if she doesn’t have a crazily stamped out passport, her mind is traveling at 100 miles per hour and changing lanes. From music to art to politics to film to metaphysics to religion. Her Cerebral Cortex works out like an olympic champion, and if you’re even going to have the slightest chance at capturing her attention, she expects you to keep up.

Ms. Sagittarius is confident, principled and filled with conviction. She’ll debate you over Illmatic vs. Reasonable Doubt, Plessy vs. Ferguson and Roe vs. Wade all in the same conversation. Unless you’re a listless deadbeat, there’s absolutely no way you can’t emerge from this Woman’s presence inspired, and much more knowledgeable.

We can all take lessons from the Sagittarius Woman about finding joy in life, keeping the faith and making the most of whatever situations we’ve created for ourselves. The Centaur’s world is filled with abundance. If you’re thinking about bringing a wet blanket to the party, you’ve got another thing coming. The Sadge woman will wash and dry it for you and send you on your way.

What can cause this Jupiter-ruled Woman trouble is her desire to be right at all costs.

In unevolved form, she’ll swear to you up and down that the “truth” is registered in her name at the patent and trademark office of whatever country she may reside in. What the Archer needs to learn in order to invoke the inner wise woman is that there’s no need to force your beliefs on others. Everyone is in a different place on their road to personal development, and when the time is appropriate, they will receive the knowledge that’s tailor made for them. Your words will not go unheard, but the actual listening and absorption may take place further down the line.

In closing, the last words to the Sagittarian Woman would be these: remember the symbolism which surrounds your sign.

Half Woman/half horse aiming your bow and arrow high up into the open universe.

Find ways to honor both sides of your nature and it will help the arrows which you shoot be more effective. Continue on your quest for your personal truth, travel fast and travel far.

Remember: the world is yours.

Take a listen to Nas’ track off of the “Illmatic” album, produced by the great Pete Rock

For those individuals genuinely interested in astrology, there’s often an uneasy confusion due to the variety and quality levels of information that are available. Distinguishing well-written, in depth and quality astrological analysis from shoddy journalism fakin’ the funk as life-changing zodiac forecasts becomes increasingly perplexing.

I can’t speak for everyone. However, for myself, the journey of astrological discovery began with the desire to learn more about my “sign”, also known as my sun sign.

So my words won’t prove to be confusing:

the term “sun sign” is used because it’s indicative of the placement of the sun on the day and at the time of your birth.

The astrological writings which present our zodiac signs as a set of ready made, microwave, “just add water” characteristics are plentiful. However, this article will not be representative of that train of thought.

More and more every day, I’m arriving at the realization that our sun signs are more of a state of awareness than a pre-assigned set of personality traits.

Our signs represent our cosmic homework and life purpose. They’re symbolic of the destination we need to arrive at in order to release our creative potential and self-expression mosteffectively.

Being born under a certain zodiac sign doesn’t automatically “make” us anything. However, becoming aware of the experiences we need to undergo in order to fulfill specific aims based on the symbolic energy of the signs is a whole new ball game.

For example, the fact that you’re a Scorpio doesn’t instantly make you sexy, passionate, jealous, and intense.

However, as a Scorpio, you may need to align yourself with certain experiences which will allow you to develop your sexual magnetism, transcend feelings of vindictiveness or incite deep drives and passions.

As a result, these crises may prove to be quite intense and lead to a transformation in your fundamental nature. Which, in turn, aids in your personal development.

There are many of us who don’t “feel” like our signs. This could be due to a number of factors. It could be that there’s a significant influence from other signs’ energy within our birth charts. Or, it could also be that we haven’t grasped this fact:

we must to claim our sun signs.

The sun is not something that’s just handed over to us on a silver platter.The act of living consciously, with keen awareness is required if we plan on embodying the most evolved version of our signs. We must discover and work in tune with our cosmic homework.

Aries: Pursuing independence. Gaining the courage to stare adversity straight in the face and forcing it blink first. It’s okay to give yourself permission to go where no Woman or Man has gone before. It’s also okay to not give a damn about those who challenge your right to be absolutely, positively YOURSELF. You can do this in an enlightened way by peeping Libra’s diplomacy.

Taurus: Establishsecurity and building wealth. Yes, I know seeing a big bank balance is cool, but life won’t work if you’re financially stable, yet morally and spiritually bankrupt.

Root yourself in life’s natural processes. Keep it simple, but remember: the only constant is change.Take a page out of Scorpio’s book of passion and that will give you just the jolt that you need.

Gemini: Intellectual inquiry. I hope you can sit still long enough to read this!! You require experiences which pique your endless curiosity. Diversity, variety, and multi- anything suits you. The devil is in the details, but you might want to check out how Sagittarius grasps the parts and weaves them into a holistic, meaningful philosophy.

Cancer:If you’re walking the sideways path of the Crab, gaining emotional intelligence is vital. Cancer requires experiences where they can thrust themselves into the nurturing, caring role.

Thereby employing their deep and acute sensitivity as a mechanism to support themselves and others. In addition, to fulfill your potential, it’s essential that you establish a family,whether by blood or ideology. People with whom you can enjoy healthy human interaction out of choice and not dependence. Study Capricorn for clues on incorporating an ample dose of objectivity into your intuitive world.

Leo: You need experiences which will get you noticed. Your ruler, the sun radiates, shines and illuminates. This particular brand of glistening must be incorporated into your life in order to obtain wholeness.

It’s highly beneficial for you to receive individual recognition for your creative efforts and talents. However, observe and take note of Aquarius’ ability to incorporate others into their activity and creating a win-win for everyone involved. Use your mind as well as your heart.

Virgo: The fuel that feeds you consists of experiences which will allow you to establish authentic priorities. Endeavors that clearly distinguish the essential from the trivial and unimportant. Events which will test your wisdom surrounding your ability, or inability to use your discriminating powers of the intellect in a wise and productive fashion.Yes, flaunt your mentalcraftsmanship!

Rest assured, whatever situation you find yourself in, you can improve it. The question is: will you? Turn to Pisces for lessons in empathy and compassion. To help remind you that humans aren’t a statistic or flow chart. No “system” replaces the personal touch.

Libra:Collaborative experienceswhich serve as a your mirror are right up your alley. Teamwork, “full cooperation and total attention”, partnerships which require shared responsibilities.

That’s your language. Internal and external harmonizing which allows your beauty and creativity to flow into the world irrespective of the specific endeavor. This is your balance. You might want to holla at Aries for guidance on retaining a solid individualitywithin group dynamics.

Scorpio: You need the raw, gut level, instinctive truth. The experiences which will provide the intensity that you need to enhance your life force can’t be found in re-runs of “leave it to beaver”.

The psychological underworld in which you need to participate goes deeper than Eddie Haskell’ shenanigans. To feel alive, you must see through the veils of life’s illusions and confront it’s taboos.

What gives you the opportunity to do this better than delving into matters of a sexual nature? Or, digging deep into the recesses of psychology, the occult, and the study of power. As to not allow passions to totally consume you, take a page out of Taurus’ book on the calm life. Sometimes, an even keel can work for you.

Sagittarius: Do you have your mental, physical and spiritual passports ready? You must participate in the quest for higher, expansive and all- inclusive thought. Whether this search requires you to obtain a stamp on your visa or the inside of a library book, you have to embark.

Experiences in which you can educate yourself and others and make your world just that much bigger is what your cosmic homework requires. The discussion and transmission of ideas, concepts and philosophies is music to your ears and food for your soul.

You have a friend in Gemini, who won’t allow you to become too grandiose. Incorporating a variety of viewpoints will help you to remember that YOUR truth and discoveries are just that. You can leave your “converter” at home.

Capricorn: Your cosmic homework is to accomplish and achieve while using your integrity as both a foundation and a guidepost. You require experiences that will allow you to make your mark in this world through your ability to build mental and physical structures which stand the test of time.

Hard work, dedication and focus are resources which you can summon in abundance. When you’re able to participate in activities which activate your organizational skills, you’re well on your way to devising strategy for the completion of short and long term goals.

Ultimately, worldly honors, prestige and status await you. However, take heed to Cancer’s example of self-care and nurturing to put the icing on the cake.

Aquarius: You need a revolution. It doesn’t have to be one which consists of calling friends for bail money after your protest went awry, but in a matter of speaking, it’s about continuous revoltagainst the implanted voice of authority within yourself.It’s required that you undergo experiences which will usurp the pseudo- police and put the real you back in charge.

As a result, you will be in a position to serve humanity a catalyst. Asking others the important, shocking questions regarding just who they’re listening to when making life-changing decisions. Is it family, race, culture, gender…. or is YOURSELF? Yes, you’ve worn these shoes, so you’ll know precisely where on the path most are treading, but look to Leo to remind you of the warmth required for such important work.

Pisces: Create. Dream. Visualize. You must participate in experiences which will allow you access to the realm which bypassesthe physical senses. After all, it’s your natural habitat. Once you stake your claim here, you have the potential to make significant spiritual progress.

The use of intermittent periods of solitude to participate in this world is strongly suggested. Upon entering, call on Virgo’s highly tuned powers of discrimination to prevent your mind from gathering wool. The precision of thought will help reduce cloudy logic and allow you to enjoy the marriage of intellect and intuition.

Many of us have read ad nauseum, the narrative of Saturn portrayed as the great malefic. We’ve been instructed to brace ourselves and fear the worst, and consider it to be a victory if we evade its evil rays until major transits involving the planet pass.

Taking ownership of and responsibility for the filter through which we perceive and process our experiences isn’t a job for the faint of heart. It’s those individuals who are steadfastly dedicated to doing the hard work of refining, questioning, doubting and earnestly aiming to see clearly that benefit from Saturn’s transiting contacts.

If you’re a person who regularly veers toward the path of least resistance, or what will demand the LEAST out of you then you may find Saturn’s transits to be sharply difficult and demanding.

However, if you’re looking to stretch yourself, suspending the comfortable for the developmental and what might or could be for what IS, you have a sturdy and reliable cosmic partner to work with.

When transiting Saturn makes contact with the Ascendant, you’re being asked to re-structure and re-organize the vehicle you use to navigate the world. The calling is to temper and refine your approach in order to draw more mature and wise observations through a serious and authentic self-presentation.

It’s paramount to remember that contemplating a more disciplined and focused approach to living isn’t designed to detract anything from you. In fact, the purpose is to institute a greater degree of self-integration so that what you think, say and do becomes more congruent.

In order to navigate this transit with maximum effectiveness, you may find it necessary to engage in solemn periods of solitude where you get real with yourself. Acquiring the patience to extract the genuine meaning, and clearing out the b.s. and excess where people, places and things are concerned can take you a long way toward realizing your essential core; complete with all of your strengths, victories, foibles and follies in tow.

If you’re expecting an overnight cure for issues you’ve been grappling with for years, or a quick fix solution for backed up neurosis, you’re barking up the wrong tree. The willingness to delay short-term gratification and approach life with an internal confidence and commitment to reaping long-term benefits from your efforts is what you need.

The understanding of pain, not necessarily as perpetual agony, but as a teacher and informer of your limits and boundaries can re-frame your perspective toward this cycle in your life.

You’re being asked to learn about where you end and other people begin and to understand that their feelings aren’t necessarily going to be yours and vice versa. Harnessing the ability to move forward in your actions without consensus will be instrumental in your development.

Often, we have a tendency to mask our pain, doubts and fears through overcompensation, or immersion in the areas of life which are sure to numb or desensitize us. If you want to use this transit in a growth oriented manner, allowing yourself to identify, feel, and release yourself from the pain associated with troublesome relationships or concepts which have controlled, blocked or hemmed you in from a stable and concrete self-image is essential.

A portion of Saturn’s reality principle involves discovering everything we ARE and everything we ARE NOT. To understand that living in truth naturally allows for more accurate assessments of our character. To be able to celebrate your progress and also re-strategize on your missteps.

In addition during this time of Saturn contacting the Ascendant, the need to “live loudly” has the potential to give way to a more self-reflective humility that welcomes the wisdom gained through first hand experiences. Whatever your life “slogan’ may have been up to this point; you can embrace the responsibility that comes with actually LIVING IT as a testament to all that you proclaim. As a matter of fact, if you’re intent on leaving your comfort zone, you have the potential to bear the standard in accordance with what you wish to exemplify.

Through consistency and reliability you can build a solid reputation. Your rewards include the possibility of an increased status and recognition for your personal achievements, but more importantly the satisfaction of knowing you’re operating from an internal locus of control and a center fortified with integrity. Your main objective is to serve as your own support and evaluation system, irrespective of applause, sour faces and the like.

This transit qualifies as a test of endurance. It raises questions surrounding your willingness be self-reliant in the shaping of your self-projection into the world. It’s a time, not to point fingers at everyone else, but to carefully examine your reactions to the reality that life is revealing to you. If you find it to be unpleasant or disconcerting, it’s your job to investigate and identify the root causes of such reactions.

Saturn not only connected with delays and obstacles, but also the level of fortitude and perseverance we’re willing to employ to combat them. So, while there may be challenges, they rarely surface independent of the possibility of meeting them in constructive and meaningful ways.

In his classic “Cosmos and Psyche” Richard Tarnas illustrates the multi-dimensional nature of Saturn’s symbolism:

Questions and themes concerning time expenditure also loom in the midst during this transit .You must consider asking yourself what, if anything of tangible or redeeming value is being produced as a result of where you choose to direct your focus.

How are you distributing your personal energies in relation to the seconds, minutes and hours that comprise your days?

In his ‘Saturnesque’ business classic “The Fifth Discipline: The Art and Practice of The Learning Organization”, author Peter Senge outlines the concept of personal mastery, which is surely an appropriate and worthwhile focus for this transit.

According to Senge,

“personal mastery is the discipline of continually clarifying and deepening our personal vision, of focusing our energies, of developing patience, and of seeing reality objectively.”

One of the major points of emphasis of transiting Saturn making contact with your Ascendant is to challenge you to integrate self-mastery as a daily practice. In other words, its concepts are designed to become an actual discipline for you

When mastery becomes incorporated as a way of life or process, rather than a passing moment or possession, there becomes a continual clarification and affirmation of what’s important to you and what you can do without. The questions you ask in order to evaluate your development center around whether the relationships and activities you’re currently choosing to engage in are in accordance with your overall vision and purpose.

Senge notes that people with a high level of personal mastery share several basic characteristics such as:

They have a special sense of purpose that lies behind their visions and goals – for such a person, a vision is a calling rather than simply a good idea.

They see “current reality” as an ally, not an enemy.

They have learned how to perceive and work with forces of change rather than resist those forces.

They are deeply inquisitive, committed to continually seeing reality more and more accurately.

They feel connected to others and life itself, yet sacrifice none of their uniqueness

They feel as if they are part of a larger creative process, which they can influence but cannot unilaterally control.

They Live in continual learning mode, acutely aware of their ignorance, incompetence and their growth areas

They are deeply self- confident

As stated earlier, in order to benefit from any cycles concerning Saturn, you must be in it for the long haul. This gives you the time needed to define re-define, hone, sharpen, organize, shape and re-shape your long-term vision. Through all of the re-modeling, it’s still important to be clear about what type of “house” you actually want.

You can experience satisfying personal gains during this transit if you’re willing to put the time and energy into discovering exactly who you are and what you want. In addition committing yourself to truth, not as a final word or ultimate stop, but an internal promise to ferret out your own tactics of self-deception which keep you out of step with a more informative reality.

One of the most challenging parts of our unfoldment as human beings is undergoing the process of developing into autonomous people. Staking the claim of our own identities outside of the structures which can either serve as liberating forces or stultifying traps: family, educational institutions, friendships, racial groups, gender roles, etc……

Around Adolescence, which is roughly between the ages of 12 and 18, the desire to have our unique personhood validated and affirm ourselves a distinct individual is intensified.

We want to create our own codes, live by independently established values and put our original stamp on our life patterns. Most likely, we’re not solid in exactly who we are at this point, so the freedom to try on many hats and experiment with various identities is paramount.

There are a number of tension filled conflicts which arise during this stage: peer pressure, the beginning of consistent contact and relations with the opposite sex, major concerns about body image, attractiveness, popularity and the dilemma of “fitting in” or “standing out”.

To think that all of these polarities, complete with consistent points of crisis will be resolved neatly and cleanly by our 18th birthday is a fantasy. The process has merely started…..

The combination of the Cancer Sun and Aquarius Moon highlights the anxious, uncertain yet exciting and electric oscillation between remaining rooted and forging forward; between the past and the future.

In a natal (birth) chart, when the Sun is in Cancer and the Moon in Aquarius, the individual is fueled by emotional and familial security. The core life energy seeks the familiarity of a tribe of like-minded individuals. The Cancerian energy is inclined to seek bonds and connections with others whether they’re “blood”, or simply because their ideologies and worldviews click.

It should also be mentioned that the dysfunction of Cancer attunement is manifested behaviorally as the inability to release these bonds, thereby holding others (and themselves) as emotional hostages. The motivation behind this behavior is often because they feel they’ve given so much of themselves through warmth, caring and active listening that it should be returned in equal measure.

The Aquarian Moon uses the Cancerian Sun’s light and energy as fuel to create a personality whose nourished by anything unconventional which doesn’t fall underthe criteria of a humdrum existence. There’s a reigning emotional need to be acknowledged as a unique individual complete with all of the quirks. This person won’t be fulfilled until it’s settled that they’re “not like everyone else”.

Additionally, this Sun-Moon blend calls for the person to challenge the same tribe which stimulates their core life energy.

The misuse of the Aquarian Moon energy can be seen in behavior which is rebellious without a cause and slavish to the “fad” of non-conformity just for the sake of it, which is actually conformity by default.

When used constructively, the tension of this challenge can accelerate and broaden life development.

The Cancer fuel that’s used in belonging must make friends with the Aquarian Moon’s need for the personality to individuate.

A possible positive outcome of this Sun-Moon combination is someone who can make their “home” anywhere. An individual who has released the guilt of unnecessary familial obligation and claimed their birthright to view life through their own unique lens while remaining rooted in healthy attachments and relationships which nurture their self-actualization.

“‎Wholeness and longing are as common as breath, so much a part of the fabric of our being they often remain unseen. They meet us everywhere, setting direction, not detail. All we do is answer their call. The shapes we build about them become a life lived, unique in time.” – Michael Bratnick

In a recent conversation regarding relationship compatibility throughout the zodiac, I made the comment that trueastrological chemistrycannot be determined solely on the basis of sun signs. An in depth analysis ofbothindividual’s birth charts is required.

In response to my comment, the question I received was: “What entire chart?” I am now here to supplement my original response by providing an answer which is more comprehensive.

Depending on your level of interest and or expertise in astrology, you may ormay not know that an entire birth chart exists for every human being. YES, we are becoming a Gemini, or a Pisces as our “signs” (also known as sun signs) indicate.

However, in our chart we also have placements for: the moon, mercury, venus, mars, jupiter, saturn, uranus, neptune and pluto. In addition, we have an Ascendant, or rising sign.

All of these planets serve their function toward our ultimate aim of wholeness.

In fact, one could view the planets as subpersonalities operating within our psyche. So, when we speak of : “a part of us wanting to go out tothe “RockThe Bells” concert, but another part of us wanting tostay home.”what we are essentially experiencing is the polarity of the various drives which exist in our mental framework.

Our whole birth chart is a symbolic tool box filled with planetary expressions to suit all occasions. These subpersonalities assist us in transitioning through the myriad of roles that we’re asked to play.

Most likely, we may need to exhibit behavior that is professional and more formal when we venture into our work settings. We also may tend to be more relaxed and casual when at home. When in the company of good friends, or intimately involvedwith a partner, we display yet another dimension of our personalities.

The essential purpose of our birth charts asa whole is to integrate all of these energies in order that they may function more effectively as a process of synthesis.

The whole is always greater than the sum of its parts.Once webecome aware that these sub-personalities are at work within our psyches, we activate the possibility of organizing them into our own celestial government, As a result of this fusion, our entire birth chart actually becomes a new, more powerful entity with its blended expressionmanifesting throughthe vessel, which is oursun signs.

The Players
So, who are these subpersonalities that I speak of? As stated earlier, we not only have a “sign” or sun sign, but we have several other planetary energies operating within our birth charts: we have a moon sign, mercury sign, venus sign, mars sign, jupiter sign, saturn sign, uranus sign, neptune sign and plutosign. Below, I have listed some brief notes on the planets and key themes that are associated with them:

Sun:our core, the ingredients that comprise our ego, what we consider to be important, our life force, vitality, where we “shine”, our pride, life purpose and destination. The type of fuel we require to maintain our vitality.

Moon: Our emotional needs, instinctive reactions, feeling response. What we need to sustain us, our biological and ideological home, family and roots, where we retreat to, general habits, how we feel nurtured and how we nurture others.

The planets show you what energies are prevalent. The signs show you how these energies tend to express themselves, and the houses illustrate where in your life you will most likely experience the manifestation of these energies.

Note: The outer planets, which are Uranus, Neptune and Pluto move very slowly. Therefore, their sign positions are generational. Everyone born within roughly a 7 year period will have the sameUranus sign. Everyone born within roughly a 14 year period will have the sameNeptune sign and everyone born within roughly a 21 year period will have thesame Pluto sign. In most cases, the house placement and the aspects of these planets to our personal planets will be of more significance than the sign placement.

The next time someone asks you “what’s your sign?” hopefully, you will be armed with the information to tell them that your sun sign is Virgo, but….. that’s not ALL that you are. That is not enough to encompass the complexity and multifaceted character of your being.

Ultimately, the ideal personality as expressed by our birth charts, is a balanced set of subpersonalities in which each subpersonality is strong and it’s particular talents fully developed.

I wish everyone well on their infinite quest for understanding.

References: Aspects in Astrology: A comprehensive Guide To Interpretation by Sue Tompkins

Multiple Mind: Healing The Split In Psyche And World by Gretchen Sliker